Jah Prayzah popularly referred to by fans and media as “Musoja” (Shona word for the soldier), because of his signature band uniform of military regalia, is a Zimbabwean contemporary musician and lead member for the band Third Generation. His stage name Jah Prayzah comes from the meaning behind his government name Mukudzei (to praise). In 2017, Jah Prayzah makes his debut on Coke Studio Africa show paired alongside Mozambican artiste Mr Bow.

BAGGING THE AWARDS

Jah has released seven commercial albums including Sungano, Rudo neRunyararo, Ngwarira Kuparara, Tsviriyo, Kumbumura Mhute and Mdhara Vachauya.His successful hit singles include “Gotchi”, “Maria” and “Dande”. “Ngwarira Kuparara” which featured the late Chiwoniso Maraire was so successful, earning him a contract for the Wednesday slots at the then jazz spot, Jazz 105. His musical success continues to rise, a journey that has seen him win a NAMA Award (2013) for Song of the Year and five NAMA Awards and two Zima Awards in 2014.

THE JOURNEY

Jah has worked with top artistes among them Tanzanian icon Diamond on “Watora Mari” which reached 1 million views two weeks after its release. In 2015, Jah opened a new studio and continues to break new ground. In 2016, he toured the USA and Canada, where he got to perform at the Edmonton Folk Festival.

BEHIND THE MUSIC

Jah Prayzah was born Mukudzeyi Mukombe on July 4, 1987 in Uzumba, Zimbabwe. He attended Musamhi Primary School and later Musamhi High School in Murehwa in Mashonaland East Province. As a young boy, he nurtured his singing in school and church as well as playing the mbira. As the last born in a family of five, he felt more inspired to pursue his interests in music and had his first experience with composing music in high school. He started to record dancehall and reggae tracks with his friends later switching to contemporary music and afro-jazz tracks with DJ Thando and other local producers. During this period, he released hit singles such as “Sorry Mama” and “Seiko”.